Cardinal – Amtrak Train Route Guide

The Cardinal is a long-distance Amtrak train route connecting the Midwest with the Mid-Atlantic and East Coast. Operating between Chicago and New York City, this route is well known for its scenic travel through the Appalachian Mountains and along major rivers.

Route Overview

• Start: Chicago, Illinois
• End: New York City, New York
• Approximate distance: ~1,146 miles
• Typical travel time: about 27–28 hours
• Service type: Long-distance
• Frequency: Limited service (operates several days per week)

The Cardinal is popular with travelers seeking a scenic rail journey as well as passengers traveling between major cities and smaller regional communities.

States and Major Stops

The Cardinal travels through the following states:

• Illinois
• Indiana
• Ohio
• West Virginia
• Virginia
• District of Columbia
• Maryland
• Pennsylvania
• New York

Key stations served by the Cardinal include:

• Chicago, IL – Chicago Union Station
• Indianapolis, IN
• Cincinnati, OH
• Charlottesville, VA
• Washington, D.C. – Washington Union Station
• New York City – New York Penn Station

View the complete station directory here:
Train Stations in the United States & Canada

Who Uses the Cardinal?

• Passengers traveling between Chicago and the East Coast
• Travelers visiting West Virginia and the Appalachian region
• Rail enthusiasts seeking one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes
• Passengers making regional trips between intermediate cities

Onboard Classes & Accommodation

Coach Class

• Reclining seats suitable for long-distance travel
• Overhead storage for carry-on luggage
• Large windows for scenic viewing

Sleeper Accommodations

• Roomettes available on this route
• Limited sleeper availability compared to other long-distance trains
• Meals generally included for sleeper passengers

For more information on sleeper cabins, see:
Amtrak Sleeper Class Guide

Dining & Onboard Services

• Café car serving snacks and beverages
• Restrooms in each coach
• Power outlets available at many seats (varies by equipment)

Wi-Fi is not consistently available and should not be relied upon for the entire journey.

Scenery and Travel Experience

The Cardinal is often regarded as one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes. Highlights include:

• New River Gorge and Appalachian Mountains in West Virginia
• River valleys and forested landscapes
• Historic towns and countryside along the route

Connections with Other Amtrak Routes

• Chicago – connections to routes such as the California Zephyr, Empire Builder, and Lake Shore Limited
• Washington, D.C. – connections to the Northeast Corridor and other eastern services

Booking the Cardinal

Tickets can be booked through:

• Amtrak official website
• Amtrak mobile app
• Station ticket counters and kiosks

Because the Cardinal operates on a limited schedule, seats and sleeper accommodations may sell out quickly. Booking early is recommended.

For booking tips and fare guidance, see:
Amtrak Ticket Booking Guide

Travel Tips for Cardinal Passengers

• Check the operating days carefully when planning your trip
• Book sleeper rooms early if you want overnight comfort
• Bring snacks and offline entertainment
• Allow buffer time for onward connections

More general rail travel advice:
Amtrak Travel Tips

FAQs

Does the Cardinal operate daily?
No. The Cardinal runs on a limited schedule each week. Always check the current timetable before booking.

Is this route scenic?
Yes. The Cardinal is widely considered one of Amtrak’s most scenic routes, especially through West Virginia.

Are meals included?
Meals are generally included for sleeper passengers. Coach passengers can purchase food from the café car.

For more Amtrak-related questions, visit:
Amtrak FAQ

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Note: The Cardinal is part of the nationwide Amtrak network. For a full overview of routes and services, visit:
Amtrak – America’s National Train Service.